The UK government has included more professions to job categories that will be exempt from the £30,000 visa threshold. This is for workers who seek a Tier 2 visa.

Professionals in the health industry, including nurses, medical radiographers, paramedics no longer have the weight of the 30k salary threshold pulling them down as they have been placed on a £20,800 visa threshold. They are required though, to be nationals of non-EEA countries. Secondary School teachers who teach STEM subjects and Mandarin are also included. The STEM subjects are maths, physics, computer science, and chemistry.

Another visa scheme was also announced which will allow up to 20 nurses from Jamaica to come gain experience in NHS hospitals. This visa will allow its holders to stay in the country for 2 years and it is part of a reciprocatory scheme.

It is necessary to be a national of the EEA countries

As for the 30k salary threshold, other applicants in the same profession, but who are not nationals of any of the EEA countries, are still subject to the £30,000 visa threshold and must surpass that income before they qualify.

Estimates, however, reveal that less than 20% of workers with medium skill jobs earn above £30,000.

Caroline Nokes, the country’s Immigration Minister said these exemptions are made to keep the NHS and schools attractive to experienced foreign nurses, paramedics, and teachers.

Make the UK, (formerly known as EEF) which is the organization for manufacturers told the government last month to introduce a minimum earnings level, arguing that the greater number of skilled workers in the manufacturing industry would fall short of the £30,000 salary threshold.

In addition, the government further revealed that it was working on introducing lower sustainable levels for net migration. It has recognized the need to bring in people who will offer value to the country and make them accessible to employers who need their skills.

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